Okay. We know that secretly (or not-so-secretly), some of our customers are brushing their teeth with a Dixie cup of water. Or less. And we’re doing our best to cut back too – with our efficient dishwashers and thrifty produce-washing practices. We’ve also been asked not to offer water to customers unless requested. But we want to do more. This is a problem that isn’t going away soon.

We know this isn’t the traditional role of a restaurant, but we’ve been rethinking what a restaurant in this community could be. So, acknowledging our collective water-saving activities, we’re asking our customers to give us the best water conservation tips, big and little. Tell us what you’re doing to save water, and submit your latest EBMUD bill. We’ll put a little team together to pick a winner. Entries will be judged on the effectiveness of the idea, overall water use improvement, cleverness, and charm. Winner gets a dinner for two on us. We’ll also present your idea in our Community Journal, newsletter, and on our social media.

To submit, email cynthia AT oliveto DOT com. You will also need to include the totals on your last water bill, both current and two years ago (your most recent water bill keeps a history of use that goes back two years). Also please tell us how many are in your household and if you’ve been on vacation at all during that time. This should be fun! We’re winging this, so expect further clarification (submission due dates, etc.) later. In the meantime, let the eccentricity begin.